"Rapid progress" for MSC Fantasia

Rapid progress is being made on the new member of the MSC Cruises fleet, MSC Fantasia, it has been reported.

And now the cruise line has claimed that it is looking ahead with anticipation to her christening in Italy late on this year.

The cruise ship, which is being built at Aker Yards in Saint-Nazaire, France, is scheduled to be officially named on December 18th 2008 in the Italian city of Naples.

"Later this year, MSC Fantasia - the most beautiful ship in the world - will pioneer a new era of stylish cruises, where the ship itself becomes the destination," Pierfrancesco Vago, chief executive officer of MSC Cruises recently commented.

MSC Cruises has described MSC Fantasia's exclusive VIP area as a "paradise within a paradise".

The MSC Yacht Club will boast 99 suites, a bar, solarium, two Jacuzzis, a swimming pool complete with a sky dome and an Observation Lounge which offers "amazing" views through its large glass windows.

"... I would just like to thank you for your caring, professional and friendly attention to my partner's anxiety regarding our Christmas cruise on Ventura. I won't bore you with the details...but you made one hell of a difference.. thank you x ”